I am a faculty member in the Department of Computer Science at Purdue University and very active in many academic and research endeavors. My wife, Varinia Barreto, and I have two wonderful and very active young boys: Sebastian and Nicolas who both attend the Elementary program. Our kids started at MSGL when they were 2 years old.

I am originally from Peru and my wife from Ecuador. Both our kids were born in Lafayette. We believe very much in having our children see and experience the world we live in. Thus, they have spent already significant time traveling. They have been to several countries in Europe, Asia, Australia, South America, Caribbean, and North America.

We are well entrenched in the little paradise called the Greater Lafayette Area. While my wife and I grew up in big cities, we believe it beneficial for our boys to grow in a smaller community and to have the benefits of nature around them. We teach them the benefits of conservation, greenness, and to appreciate diversity and the space around them. Our kids are also very active in the community including using our city’s libraries, practicing various sports, participating in Cub Scouts, going camping and fishing, and partaking in other educational and recreational activities.

As a board member, I hope to better my understanding of the Montessori education process, to be more involved with our children’s education process, and when possible to positively contribute to the education and experiences of other young children at MSGL and in the area.